Whew. That’s the way we feel as we round the bend into the final days of the year. 2024 was a whirlwind of pop culture phenomena, from era-defining albums to the excitement of the Olympics, the resurgence of blockbuster movie musicals, and even the viral fame of a devastatingly cute pygmy hippo. While you might not remember every detail, we’ve taken note of the niche oddities and TikTok fads that shaped this unforgettable year. Surprisingly, even perennial history-maker Taylor Swift didn’t make the cut this time, despite helming the highest-grossing tour ever. But fear not; let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the trends and crazes that defined 2024 — for better or worse.
### Best Midwesterner: Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan, the “Good Luck, Babe!” singer, truly owned 2024. Although her debut album dropped over a year ago, it was this year that she captured hearts with her fiery performances and candid lyrics celebrating love and identity. Roan’s electric live shows brought drag to festival stages, and her refusal to conform to industry pressures resonated with fans. As she teases new music, it’s clear that this Midwestern princess is reforming pop music in her image, and we can’t wait to see what she brings in 2025.
### Best Throuple: Tashi, Art, and Patrick in ‘Challengers’
In the great tennis romance “Challengers,” Zendaya’s character finds herself in a complicated love triangle with Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist. Their clumsy three-way kiss set the stage for a narrative that blurred the lines between tennis and passion. The film left audiences wondering about the true nature of their relationships, and with a cliffhanger ending, we’re left hoping this trio finds resolution — and perhaps more than just a game of tennis.
### Silliest Sabrina Carpenter Lyric: ‘That’s that me espresso’
Sabrina Carpenter’s 2024 album “Short n’ Sweet” showcased her wit and playful lyricism. Among the standout lines, “That’s that me espresso” took the cake for its sheer silliness. Other contenders included “I know I Mountain Dew it for ya” and her quest for “a boy who’s nice that breathes.” Carpenter’s clever wordplay made her the poet laureate of lust this year.
### Best Epic Film: Jenny Nicholson’s 4-Hour Opus on Disney’s ‘Star Wars’ Hotel
When Disney’s “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” hotel closed with little fanfare, YouTube deep-diver Jenny Nicholson stepped in to dissect its failure. Her four-hour video, filled with hilarious anecdotes from her visit, became a must-watch. Nicholson’s thorough analysis of why the hotel experience fell flat was both entertaining and enlightening, proving that sometimes the journey is more enjoyable than the destination.
### Hottest Ticket on Broadway: Cole Escola’s ‘Oh, Mary!’
Cole Escola’s “Oh, Mary!” took Broadway by storm with its farcical portrayal of a fictionalized Mary Todd Lincoln. Escola’s portrayal of the First Lady as a cabaret star seeking the spotlight was both hilarious and refreshing. The show became the buzziest theatrical event of the season, showcasing Escola’s talent as both a playwright and performer.
### Best Pop Manifesto: ‘Brat’
Charli XCX’s “Brat” was a revelation in 2024, solidifying her status as a pop icon. The album encapsulated the essence of being a “brat” — living life to the fullest while juggling personal and professional demands. Charli’s exploration of this state of being resonated with fans, proving that she is not just a star but a cultural force.
### Funniest Trainwreck: ‘Willy’s Chocolate Experience’ in Glasgow
What was meant to be a whimsical “Willy Wonka”-themed event turned into a hilarious disaster in Glasgow. The unlicensed experience featured a demoralized Oompa Loompa and sparse sets, leaving attendees disappointed. The footage of the event quickly went viral, allowing everyone to share in the laughter at its expense.
### Most Impressive Practical Magic: Pat McGrath’s Porcelain Margiela Makeup
Makeup artist Pat McGrath elevated her craft to new heights at Maison Margiela’s couture show, transforming models into porcelain dolls. Her artistry inspired countless imitations, and when she shared her secrets in an Instagram Live, fans were thrilled to learn that the look could be achieved with accessible products. McGrath’s blend of high and low art captivated the beauty world.
### Best Genre-Bender: Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’
Beyoncé’s bold cover of “Jolene” in her album “Cowboy Carter” showcased her versatility and country roots. As Billboard’s No. 1 pop star of all time, Beyoncé proved her ability to transcend genres with this 27-track masterpiece, leaving no doubt about her place in the music industry.
### Most Movie of the Year: ‘Wicked’
The cinematic adaptation of “Wicked” took the world by storm, reigniting the love for movie musicals. With Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo leading the cast, the film became a cultural phenomenon, sparking debates over its artistic choices and inspiring a wave of fanfiction. The excitement surrounding “Wicked” was palpable, and fans eagerly anticipated the sequel.
### Best Get-Rich-Quick Scheme: Movie Sequels
In a year dominated by sequels, Hollywood seemed to prioritize familiarity over originality. Nine of the ten highest-grossing films were sequels, with only “Wicked” breaking the mold. The trend raised questions about creativity in the film industry, but audiences continued to flock to familiar franchises.
### Best Sneak Attack: AI
AI’s rapid integration into daily life caught many off guard in 2024. From transforming search engines to raising environmental concerns, AI became a hot topic. Its swift evolution and potential threats left society grappling with the implications of this technology, proving that the future is already here.
### Most Smoosh-able Face: Moo Deng
Moo Deng, the adorable pygmy hippo, captured hearts and dominated social media in 2024. With her chubby cheeks and playful demeanor, she became a viral sensation, reminding us all of the joy that comes from cute animals. Moo Deng was truly the star of the year.
### Best Public Execution: Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar
Drake faced a challenging year as Kendrick Lamar unleashed a series of diss tracks that resonated with fans. The rivalry culminated in Kendrick being named the Super Bowl halftime show performer, solidifying his status as the victor in their ongoing feud. Drake’s attempts to fight back only added to the spectacle.
### Best Sidekick: The Rizzler
The Rizzler, an 8-year-old sidekick, became a beloved figure in the TikTok community alongside his Costco Guys. Their antics, including playing games and enjoying snacks, captured the hearts of viewers, proving that sometimes the simplest moments bring the most joy.
### Best Definitely Not Overused Catchphrase: ‘Very Demure, Very Mindful’
The phrase “very demure, very mindful” became a humorous catchphrase in 2024, often used to describe various situations. Its playful nature resonated with audiences, adding a touch of levity to conversations and social media interactions.
### Best Industry Plant: Glen Powell
Glen Powell’s rise to fame in 2024 raised eyebrows, with many questioning the authenticity of his Hollywood journey. His charming persona and fluffy dog, Brisket, endeared him to fans, but the skepticism surrounding his rapid ascent lingered.
### Best Hollywood Obsession: MILFs
Hollywood’s fascination with older women pursuing younger men reached new heights in 2024. Films like “The Idea of You” and “A Family Affair” explored this theme, prompting discussions about societal perceptions of desire and relationships.
### Best Soap Opera: Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck’s tumultuous relationship provided endless entertainment in 2024. From love letters to divorce filings, their saga captivated audiences, with every twist and turn drawing public attention and speculation.
### Best 15 Seconds of Fame to Actual Fame Leap: Hawk Tuah Girl
Hawk Tuah Girl, known for her viral oral sex tip, quickly transitioned from internet sensation to influencer and podcaster. However, her rise to fame was marred by controversy surrounding her cryptocurrency venture, highlighting the unpredictable nature of fame in the digital age.
### Best Main Character: The Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games
The Paris 2024 Summer Olympics captured the world’s attention, with athletes becoming the focal point of conversations. From stunning performances to unforgettable moments, the Games dominated the summer, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
### Best Culture Upending Saga: Reesa Teesa’s ‘Who TF Did I Marry?’
Reesa Teesa’s TikTok saga about heartbreak and betrayal became a cultural phenomenon in 2024. The story captivated audiences, leading to a planned TV adaptation that promises to bring her tale to an even wider audience.
### Best Way to Ditch the Dating Apps: Celeb Lookalike Parties
In a refreshing twist on dating, celeb lookalike parties emerged as a fun alternative to swiping on apps. People embraced the chance to meet others while channeling their favorite stars, proving that sometimes, the best connections happen in real life.
As we close the chapter on 2024, it’s clear that this year was filled with unforgettable moments, cultural shifts, and a few delightful surprises. From music to film, and everything in between, the tapestry of pop culture continues to evolve, leaving us eager for what’s to come in the new year.
